Langford says he's not resigning

Birmingham Mayor Larry Langford blasted critics Tuesday who he said have spread rumors about his health and political future.

"It is absolutely tacky. You don't put out those kind of rumors about people," Langford said at the start of the Birmingham City Council meeting.

A rumor circulated on talk radio Monday that the mayor would resign today. His federal bribery case begins on Aug. 31. One co-defendant, longtime friend Al LaPierre, has changed his plea to guilty. Another co-defendant, Bill Blount, is expected to change his plea to guilty in a hearing later today in Tuscaloosa.

Sitting on the dais in the Birmingham City Council Chamber, Langford said, "The last time I checked, I am still here. I've never seen or heard so many lies told on so many people. I felt compelled to put an end to these lies and rumors now, because my cup has run over with it."